E3 2003 Yuji Naka Really Wants to Work on a New SEGA Console

[Dreadknux]

Could it be? Although a new SEGA home console feels like an impossible dream right now, it sounds like Sonic Team leader Yuji Naka is doing everything he can to convince the corporation to re-enter the hardware race.

In an interview at E3 with Kikizo, Naka was asked if he missed creating games on exclusive SEGA hardware such as the Dreamcast. He replied, "Yes, I miss that very much. Back then Sega was a little more idolized. When Sega is ready to do with it's own proprietary hardware platform, I will really, definitely want to work on it."

Kikizo followed up with a question on whether the Phantasy Star Online director could realistically see that happening - that SEGA could be ready in the future to develop consoles again. "In order to realize that, I am working really hard," he responded.

This obviously doesn't mean that a new console IS being made by SEGA any time soon - and Kikizo makes it clear that Naka-san was speaking through a translator, so it is likely that his exact words and meaning are open for interpretation. But it's clear that the studio head yearns for the days of the Dreamcast again, just like the rest of us.

Interestingly, Kikizo also asked Naka what he thought about the rumours of SEGA merging with another company, and which company would be the best fit for SEGA - but before he could finish answering, Naka was cut off by SEGA Japan reps who said that the developer was not allowed to answer that question. Kikizo wrote:

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Naka looked slightly uncomfortable about this, as did everyone else present... despite the nature of our question having been deliberately based on what Naka's opinion might be, not actual facts. Perhaps he was about to inadvertently spill some confidential beans... 

Wonder what he might have said?

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